5 Things Successful Entrepreneurs Do Daily
Updated: Aug 5, 2021
You want to be an entrepreneur, now what?
Do you know that only 6% of the people in this world are entrepreneurs? That means that 94% of people are used to working for someone, being told what to do, and not being able to make a move forward on almost anything without permission or checking to make sure it is the scope of what “the boss” wants. This is something to be aware of as you move into entrepreneurship because most of us are wired to behave this way. As an entrepreneur, you are now in full control of everything, which also means that nothing will move forward unless you make it happen. As the late great Jim Rohn said, “If it is meant to be, it is up to me”. To be successful as an entrepreneur, you must understand this early, and set your life up accordingly to be successful. Success leaves clues and the most successful entrepreneurs all have similar behaviors and actions on any given day.
1) Establish a routine and say NO more often. If an entrepreneur doesn’t set and stick to a daily schedule, how can he or she accomplish anything? It’s a challenge for the average person to juggle his or her personal and professional lives. Without a routine, an entrepreneur won’t complete any work.
No one can really provide a routine for you. Set up one yourself based on what’s going on in your personal life and your work habits. If you have a family and happen to be an early riser, then you probably want to start early in the morning before anyone in your household rises. If you’re more productive at night, then set up a routine based on being a night owl. Realize that building a business is a huge time commitment. You have made a decision that does not allow you any time, in your first year, to do anything but build your business. If you want a bigger business, maybe it’s the first 2 or 3 years. No more binge-watching Netflix, casual nights out with your friends and saying “yes” out of guilt or obligation. Now is your time to be selfish and focus on the activities that will move the needle forward. It is critically important that you schedule all activities pertaining to building your business, managing your mindset, physical activity, sleep and occasionally recharging your battery. If it is not scheduled, it is rare that it will get done on a regular basis. If it does not pertain to the list I just mentioned, you need to seriously consider why you are doing it.
2) Personal Development. You might be thinking that there isn’t enough time in the day already, how could I possibly fit one more thing in? That is very true and is why I’d like to introduce a concept called NET, No Extra Time. NET exists during your day anywhere an activity cannot be removed. Your morning commute or getting ready in the morning are two excellent examples. These are perfect opportunities to listen to a book on tape or a podcast. Try it!! Even 5 minutes a day will get you in the right ‘state’ for the day. Let’s face it, entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint of heart, and you will find yourself looking for inspiration, ideas, and courage often. Family and friends may not believe in your idea or decision, and you can’t let them into your head right now. In fact, you might want to consider spending less time with people that aren’t in full support. Rather spend time listening to people who have gone before you. Thought leaders who are experts in the area that you are moving into or maybe pick someone like Tony Robbins or Grant Cardone who are masters in their own right at helping you get into a peak state and massive focused action.
3) Exercise and meditate. The importance of exercise has been well established so I won't bore you with the details and figures. But some really successful people make exercising a priority. Most major CEOs start their morning off with exercise. But what if you’re not the type of person who likes to rise early or has the time to work out the first thing in the morning? Work in a routine at some other time of day. Even if you don’t lift weights at home or in the office or go for a morning run, at least do yoga or meditate. Any sort of activity to relieve stress and clear your mind will provide a much-needed release. And it will be a great way to give you time by yourself and help you prepare for tackling the next project.
4) Plan tomorrow, tonight
Did you grow up with a parent who made sure you were ready for school the night before? Whether that involved getting your clothes out or preparing your lunch, these rituals shaped you. So prepare for the next day before going to bed.
Successful people insist on keeping a schedule every day. When you arrange before going to bed at least a couple of tasks or goals for the next day, you’re more likely to wake up and start on the project at hand. This can also help you create priorities in your schedule for the following day instead of letting thoughts of unfinished work accumulate. Plus, this evening time is a good time to get some work done because everyone is probably asleep or about to drift off.
Also, be sure to set a bedtime. There’s nothing better if you need to refresh for the following day. Virtually every successful entrepreneur goes to bed at the same time every night. Be sure that you don’t get distracted when trying to fall asleep: Leave the phone or computer in another room. You’ll be glad the next morning when you wake up refreshed and ready to take on the world.
5) Take time to recharge
Successful people try to manage to prioritize spending some time with family, according to a new Harvard Business School study. If they could set aside time, you, that uber-busy entrepreneur, can squeeze in time for your spouse (and children). When you spend time with the most important people in your life, it not only clears your head. It also helps you remember what you’re fighting for.
But what if you’re single and don’t have children? That’s still not a reason to miss out on living your life. All people need some time to recharge their batteries. That means enjoying whatever it is that you enjoy doing. Whether you enjoy going to the movies alone, having drinks with friends, or going for a bike ride, take time to smell the roses. Who knows? Maybe you’ll get inspired along the way.